2025's Best Games: Indie Breakouts, Nintendo Switch 2, and Labor Unrest

The article highlights the best games of 2025, including Nintendo Switch 2 and indie breakouts like Blue Prince and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. It also covers the video game industry's labor issues and notable releases like Death Stranding 2 and Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. An interactive list invites readers to discover their next favorite game.

The year 2025 has been a pivotal one for the gaming industry, marked by significant releases, labor disputes, and charitable initiatives. The Nintendo Switch 2 and its exclusive titles like Mario Kart World have been standout releases, alongside a host of indie breakouts such as Blue Prince and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 [1, 3].

The industry has also seen its share of labor turmoil, with strikes and landmark labor deals shaping the landscape. The video game voice and motion capture actors' strike, which lasted nearly a year, ended with a new contract that includes robust AI protections, consent, and disclosure requirements [4]. This agreement not only ensures better protections for performers but also sets a precedent for the ethical use of AI in the gaming industry.

In addition to these labor issues, the industry has faced deep layoffs and massive strikes, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by workers. However, the year has also seen some notable releases, including long-awaited sequels like Death Stranding 2 and Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, as well as imaginative tabletop games like Molly House and Daggerheart [1, 3].

A unique charitable initiative by GameStop has also made headlines. The company auctioned off a repaired Nintendo Switch 2 and CEO Ryan Cohen's personal items, including his underwear, to raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals [2]. The auction, which started at over $120,000, had reached $218,401 by Friday 11:45 a.m. ET, with the promise of a personal delivery and lunch at McDonald’s if the bidding exceeded $1 million.

The video game industry continues to evolve, with new challenges and opportunities presenting themselves. From labor protections to charitable initiatives, the industry is navigating a complex landscape while delivering engaging and innovative gaming experiences.

References:
[1] https://www.knkx.org/2025-07-16/the-best-games-of-2025-so-far-picked-by-nprs-staff
[2] https://www.benzinga.com/news/entertainment/25/07/46382308/gamestop-auction-sees-over-200k-bid-for-stapler-that-broke-nintendo-switch-2-consoles
[3] https://www.klcc.org/2025-07-16/the-best-games-of-2025-so-far-picked-by-nprs-staff
[4] https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/industry-video-game-actors-pass-agreement-with-studios-for-ai-security/article69799333.ece